Headset cord holder

ABSTRACT

A headset cord holder comprises a body and a first groove built into the body configured to receive and releasably hold a headset cord. In some embodiments, the first groove has a diameter less than or equal to approximately 2 mm. In further embodiments, the body is integrally formed within the closure mechanism. In some embodiments the body comprises one or more of glass, wood and metal. In some embodiments, the body comprises one or more of stamped metal and molded metal. In further embodiments, the body comprises molded plastic. In some embodiments, the body comprises one or more additional grooves configured to receive and releasably secure the headset cord.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation-in-part of the co-pending U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/291,740, filed Nov. 12, 2008, andentitled “HEADSET CORD HOLDER,” which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety, which claims priority to the U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 61/133,487, filed Jun. 27, 2008, entitled “HEADSETCORD HOLDER,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to cord holders. More particularly, thepresent invention relates to a cord holder used to affix a headset cordto clothing and bags.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Headset cords transmit signals from a source device, such as a musicplayer or cell phone, to earphones being worn by a user. Although thesecords are typically flexible and can be maneuvered out of the way by theuser, such manipulation by the user can be inconvenient, and ofteninefficient, as the cords regularly find their way back into anundesired location.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, a headset cord holder comprises a rigid body coupled to aclosure mechanism configured to releasably couple a first portion of anarticle to a second portion of an article and a first groove built intothe body configured to receive and releasably hold a headset cord. Insome embodiments, the first groove has a diameter less than or equal toapproximately 2 mm. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism is one ormore of a releasable clip and a zipper. In some of these embodiments,the releasable clip is coupled to a sports helmet. In furtherembodiments, the body is integrally formed within the closure mechanism.In some embodiments, the body is removably coupled to the closuremechanism. In some embodiments the body comprises one or more of glass,wood and metal. In some embodiments, the body comprises one or more ofstamped metal and molded metal. In further embodiments, the bodycomprises molded plastic. In some embodiments, the body comprises one ormore additional grooves configured to receive and releasably secure theheadset cord.

In another aspect, a headset cord holder comprises a body comprising aportion of an accessory item and a first groove built into the bodyconfigured to receive and releasably hold a headset cord. In some ofthese embodiments, the body is configured to be coupled to at least anadditional article. In some embodiments, the accessory item is one ormore of a necklace, a broach, a pair of earrings, a bracelet and asunglass lanyard. In some embodiments, the body comprises one or more ofwood, glass, and metal. In some embodiments, the first groove has adiameter of less than or equal to approximately 2 mm. In someembodiments, the body comprises one or more additional groovesconfigured to receive and releasably secure the headset cord.

In yet another aspect, a headset cord comprises a body comprising aportion of an identifying surface configured to be attached to at leastan additional article and a first groove built into the body configuredto receive and releasably hold a headset cord. In some embodiments, thebody comprises one or more of rubber, plastic, and metal. In someembodiments, the body is configured to be attached to one or moreadditional articles from the group including a bag and an item ofclothing. In some embodiments, the groove has a diameter of less than orequal to approximately 2 mm. In some embodiments, the body comprises oneor more additional grooves configured to receive and releasably securethe headset cord. In further embodiments, the body is attached to the atleast an additional article by one or more of stitching, riveting, heatpressing, adhesive attachment, and a chemical method.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-D illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded into a shirt button in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 2A-D illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded into a zipper puller in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 3A-B illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded onto the front face of a side squeeze buckle used on bagsand packs in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

FIGS. 4A-B illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded into the surface of a plastic shirt snap in accordancewith the principles of the present invention.

FIGS. 5A-D illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded into the outside of a clip for attachment to articles ofclothing or bags in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 6A-C illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded onto a 3-bar webbing slider used on bags and packs inaccordance with the principles of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A-D illustrate embodiments of a headset cord holder having agroove molded onto an adornment in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded onto an adornment that utilizes a magnetic attachment inaccordance with the principles of the present invention.

FIGS. 9A-B illustrate embodiments of a headset cord holder having twosubstantially parallel grooves in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 10A-B illustrate embodiments of a headset cord holder having twointersecting grooves in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 11A-B illustrate embodiments of a headset cord holder having threegrooves in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded onto a slider used on bags and packs in accordance withthe principles of the present invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded into a zipper puller in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate an embodiment of a headset cord holderhaving one or more grooves molded into a zipper in accordance with someembodiments.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate an embodiment of a headset cord having agroove molded into a body coupled with a sunglass lanyard in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate an embodiment of a headset cord having agroove molded into a releasable clip coupled to a sports helmet inaccordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 17A illustrates an embodiment of a headset cord having a groovemolded into a piece of jewelry in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 17B illustrates a close-up view of an embodiment of a headset cordhaving a groove molded into a piece of jewelry in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a headset cord holder having agroove molded into an identifying surface in accordance with someembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The description below concerns several embodiments of the invention. Thediscussion references the illustrated preferred embodiment. However, thescope of the present invention is not limited to either the illustratedembodiment, nor is it limited to those discussed, to the contrary, thescope should be interpreted as broadly as possible based on the languageof the Claims section of this document.

This disclosure provides several embodiments of the present invention.It is contemplated that any features from any embodiment can be combinedwith any features from any other embodiment. In this fashion, hybridconfigurations of the illustrated embodiments are well within the scopeof the present invention.

FIGS. 1A-D illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder 100 havinga groove 120 molded into the body 110 of a shirt button in accordancewith the principles of the present invention. FIGS. 1A-D show a sideview, front view, plan view, and perspective view of the cord holder100, respectively.

The body 110 is configured to be coupled to a shirt, or another item ofclothing, in the place of a standard button. In some embodiments, one ormore apertures 115 are formed in the body 110 and used to sew, orotherwise affix, the body 110 of the cord holder 100 to an item ofclothing. In some embodiments, the body 110 is configured to act as aclosure mechanism capable of releasably coupling a first portion of theitem of clothing to a second portion of the article of clothing. Forexample, in some embodiments, the body 110 is coupled to a dress shirtin a location opposite and corresponding to a hole in the center frontplacket, thereby allowing the body 110 to mate with the hole andsecurely close that portion of the shirt.

A groove 120 is molded or otherwise built into the body 110. The groove120 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord. Insome embodiments, the groove 120 is defined by a groove wall 130 thatsurrounds most of the groove 120, leaving only an entry space 125through which the cord can access the groove 120. In some embodiments,the entry space 125 has a smaller diameter than the groove 120 and thecord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of the groove wall130 and requiring a significant amount of force for its removal. In someembodiments, portions of the groove wall 130 are flexible so that as thecord is pushed through the entry space 125, the cord is able to forcethe groove wall 130 out of its way and temporarily increase the diameterof the entry space 125 so that the cord can pass through the entry space125 into the groove 120. In some embodiments, the groove wall 130 issubstantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve of the cord toconstrict as it passes through the entry space 125 between the ends ofthe groove wall 130.

FIGS. 2A-D illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder 200 havinga groove molded into the body 210 of a zipper puller in accordance withthe principles of the present invention. FIGS. 2A-D show a bottom view,side view, front view, and plan view of the cord holder 200,respectively.

The body 210 is configured to be coupled to a bag or an item ofclothing, such as a shirt, in the place of a standard zipper. In someembodiments, the body 210 is configured to act as a closure mechanismcapable of releasably coupling a first portion of the bag or item ofclothing to a second portion of the bag or article of clothing. Forexample, in some embodiments, the body 210 comprises a channel (notshown) formed in opposing sidewalls 215 in order to receive andreleasably couple together zipper tracks of the first portion and thesecond portion. In some embodiments, a puller 240 is coupled to the body210 in order to facilitate the translation of the body 210 along theportions of the bag or item of clothing to which it is attached. In someembodiments, the puller 240 comprises a string loop, as shown in FIGS.2A-D. In some embodiments, the puller 240 comprises a standard metal orplastic puller (not shown).

A groove 220 is molded or otherwise built into the body 210. The groove220 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord. Insome embodiments, the groove 220 is defined by a groove wall 230 thatsurrounds most of the groove 220, leaving only an entry space 225through which the cord can access the groove 220. In some embodiments,the entry space 225 has a smaller diameter than the groove 220 and thecord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of the groove wall230 and requiring a significant amount of force for its removal. In someembodiments, portions of the groove wall 230 are flexible so that as thecord is pushed through the entry space 225, the cord is able to forcethe groove wall 230 out of its way and temporarily increase the diameterof the entry space 225 so that the cord can pass through the entry space225 into the groove 220. In some embodiments, the groove wall 230 issubstantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve of the cord toconstrict as it passes through the entry space 225 between the ends ofthe groove wall 230.

FIGS. 3A-B illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder 300 havinga groove molded onto the front face of a side squeeze buckle used onbags and packs in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention. FIGS. 3A-B show a plan view and a side view of the cordholder 300, respectively.

The side squeeze buckle comprises a female buckle end 315 coupled to abuckle strap or webbing 340 and a male buckle end 335 coupled to abuckle strap or webbing 345. The female buckle end 315 is configured toreceive and releasably hold the male buckle end 335. In someembodiments, either the female buckle end 315 or the male buckle end 335comprises a groove body. In some embodiments, the groove body comprisesa portion 310 that protrudes from either the female buckle end 315, asseen in FIGS. 3A-B, or the male buckle end 335. In some embodiments, thegroove body does not protrude from the rest of the buckle end, butrather is flush with the rest of the buckle end. Additionally, in someembodiments, the body, including any protruding portion 310, isintegrally formed with the buckle end, while in other embodiments, thebody is a separate component that is attached to the buckle end. In someembodiments, the groove body is configured to act as a closure mechanismcapable of releasably coupling a first strap, and any item to which thefirst strap is attached, to a second strap, and any item to which thesecond strap is attached. For example, in some embodiments, the groovebody is part of a female buckle end 315 that is coupled to a firstportion of a bag via a strap 340. The female buckle end 315 mates with amale buckle end 335. The male buckle end 335 is coupled to a secondportion of the bag via a strap 345.

A groove 320 is molded or otherwise built into the groove body. Thegroove 320 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headsetcord. In some embodiments, the groove 320 is defined by a groove wall330 that surrounds most of the groove 320, leaving only an entry space325 through which the cord can access the groove 320. In someembodiments, the entry space 325 has a smaller diameter than the groove320 and the cord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of thegroove wall 330 and requiring a significant amount of force for itsremoval. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 330 areflexible so that as the cord is pushed through the entry space 325, thecord is able to force the groove wall 330 out of its way and temporarilyincrease the diameter of the entry space 325 so that the cord can passthrough the entry space 325 into the groove 320. In some embodiments,the groove wall 330 is substantially rigid, thereby forcing the outersleeve of the cord to constrict as it passes through the entry space 325between the ends of the groove wall 330.

It is contemplated that the groove 320 is able to be molded in variousdirections depending on its intended use. In some embodiments, thegroove 320 is built into a groove body that is configured to swivelabout the buckle end, or other support member, to which it is attached,thereby allowing the groove 320 to be rotated into a desired position.

FIGS. 4A-B illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder 400 havinga groove 420 molded into the surface of a plastic or metal snap fastenerin accordance with the principles of the present invention. It iscontemplated that the snap fastener is capable of being used on a shirt460, as shown in FIG. 4A, or on another item of clothing or a bag.

The shirt snap comprises a male snap 435 and a female snap 445 that areconfigured to releasably couple to one another. For example, in someembodiments, the male snap 435 comprises a stud 440 that is configuredto fit securely into an aperture in the female snap 445. The perimeterof the aperture is defined by the inner circumference of the socket lip450 and the base 455 of the female snap 445. In some embodiments, thesocket lip 450 extends farther towards the aperture than the base 455,and the end of the stud 440 has a larger diameter than the base of thestud 440. In this configuration, the end of the stud 440, when insertedinto the aperture, snaps into place, and is secured from accidentalremoval by the socket lip 450.

The shirt snap comprises a groove body 410. In some embodiments, thegroove body 410 is integrally formed with the male snap 435 or thefemale snap 445. In other embodiments, the groove body 410 is a distinctcomponent that is attached to the male snap 435 or the female snap 445.For example, FIG. 4B shows an exploded view of the cord holder 400 withthe groove body 410 separated from the male snap 435. The groove body410 comprises a base stud 415 that fits securely into an aperture in themale snap 435. In some embodiments, the groove body (as a part of thesnap fastener) is configured to act as a closure mechanism capable ofreleasably coupling a first portion of an item of clothing or a bag to asecond portion of the article of clothing or bag.

A groove 420 is molded or otherwise built into the groove body 410. Thegroove 420 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headsetcord. In some embodiments, the groove 420 is defined by a groove wall430 that surrounds most of the groove 420, leaving only an entry space425 through which the cord can access the groove 420. In someembodiments, the entry space 425 has a smaller diameter than the groove420 and the cord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of thegroove wall 430 and requiring a significant amount of force for itsremoval. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 430 areflexible so that as the cord is pushed through the entry space 425, thecord is able to force the groove wall 430 out of its way and temporarilyincrease the diameter of the entry space 425 so that the cord can passthrough the entry space 425 into the groove 420. In some embodiments,the groove wall 430 is substantially rigid, thereby forcing the outersleeve of the cord to constrict as it passes through the entry space 425between the ends of the groove wall 430. FIG. 4A shows the cord holder400 in use as a shirt snap fastener on a user's shirt 460. The cordholder 400 holds a cord 465 that connects the user's Ipod 470 to theuser's earphones 475.

It is contemplated that the groove 420 is able to be molded in variousdirections depending on its intended use. In some embodiments, thegroove 420 is built into a groove body 410 that is configured to swivelabout the rest of the snap fastener to which it is attached, therebyallowing the groove 420 to be rotated into a desired position.

FIGS. 5A-D illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder 500 havinga groove 520 molded into the outside of a clip in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention. It is contemplated that the clip iscapable of being attached to bags or articles of clothing, such as pantsand the collar of a t-shirt.

The clip comprises a body 510 that is configured to be coupled to a bagor an item of clothing. The body 510 comprises a first opposing member535 that curves around into a second opposing member 545 to form asubstantially U-shaped clip. The separation between the two opposingmembers 535 and 545, along with the curved portion connecting them,forms a channel 540 that is configured to receive a portion of an itemof clothing or a bag. In some embodiments, this channel 540 enables thesecure translation of the body 510 along the bag or item of clothing towhich it is attached.

A groove 520 is molded or otherwise built into the body 510. The groove520 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord. Insome embodiments, the groove 520 is defined by a groove wall 530 thatsurrounds most of the groove 520, leaving only an entry space 525through which the cord can access the groove 520. In some embodiments,the entry space 525 has a smaller diameter than the groove 520 and thecord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of the groove wall530 and requiring a significant amount of force for its removal. In someembodiments, portions of the groove wall 530 are flexible so that as thecord is pushed through the entry space 525, the cord is able to forcethe groove wall 530 out of its way and temporarily increase the diameterof the entry space 525 so that the cord can pass through the entry space525 into the groove 520. In some embodiments, the groove wall 530 issubstantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve of the cord toconstrict as it passes through the entry space 525 between the ends ofthe groove wall 530.

FIGS. 6A-C illustrate one embodiment of a headset cord holder 600 havinga groove 620 molded onto a 3-bar webbing slider in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention. It is contemplated that the slideris capable of being used on the webbing and straps of a bag and packs.

The slider comprises a body 610 that is configured to receive thewebbing or the strap 640 of a bag. The body 610 comprises at least twoopenings 635 and 645 that are separated by a bar and configured toreceive the strap 640. These openings 635 and 645, along with theseparating bar, enable the secure translation of the body 610 along thestrap to which it is attached.

A groove 620 is molded or otherwise built into the body 610. The groove620 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord 665.In some embodiments, the groove 620 is defined by a groove wall 630 thatsurrounds most of the groove 620, leaving only an entry space 625through which the cord 665 can access the groove 620. In someembodiments, the entry space 625 has a smaller diameter than the groove620 and the cord 665, thereby securing the cord 665 within the confinesof the groove wall 630 and requiring a significant amount of force forits removal. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 630 areflexible so that as the cord 665 is pushed through the entry space 625,the cord 665 is able to force the groove wall 630 out of its way andtemporarily increase the diameter of the entry space 625 so that thecord 665 can pass through the entry space 625 into the groove 620. Insome embodiments, the groove wall 630 is substantially rigid, therebyforcing the outer sleeve of the cord 665 to constrict as it passesthrough the entry space 625 between the ends of the groove wall 630.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of a headset cord holder 1200having a groove built into a slider used on bags and packs in accordancewith the principles of the present invention. The slider is capable ofbeing used on webbing and straps. The slider comprises a body that isconfigured to receive a webbing or strap. The body comprises at leasttwo openings 1235 and 1245 that are configured to receive the strap.These openings 1235 and 1245, along with the separating bar, enable thesecure translation of the body along the strap to which it is attached.

A groove 1220 is molded or otherwise built into the body. The groove1220 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord 1265.In some embodiments, the groove 1220 is defined by a groove wall 1230that surrounds most of the groove 1220, leaving only an entry spacethrough which the cord 1265 can access the groove 1220. In someembodiments, the entry space has a smaller diameter than the groove 1220and the cord 1265, thereby securing the cord 1265 within the confines ofthe groove wall 1230 and requiring a significant amount of force for itsremoval. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 1230 areflexible so that as the cord 1265 is pushed through the entry space, thecord 1265 is able to force the groove wall 1230 out of its way andtemporarily increase the diameter of the entry space so that the cord1265 can pass through the entry space into the groove 1220. In someembodiments, the groove wall 1230 is substantially rigid, therebyforcing the outer sleeve of the cord 1265 to constrict as it passesthrough the entry space between the ends of the groove wall 1230.

In contrast to the continuous groove walls 630 shown in FIGS. 6A-C, thegroove walls 1230, which define the groove 1220, are segmented. In someembodiments, the opposing segmented groove walls 1230 are offset fromone another. The segmentation and offsetting of the groove walls 1230provides additional or alternative entry spaces through which the groove1220 is able to receive the cord 1265.

FIGS. 7A-D illustrate headset cord holders 700 and 705 having a groove720 molded into an adornment in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention. In some embodiments, the adornment is an ornamentalaccessory having an aesthetic characteristic unrelated to its functionalstructure, such as the star shape in FIGS. 7A-B and the moon shape inFIGS. 7C-D. The buttons, zippers, buckles, snaps, clips, and slidersshown in the previous figures would not constitute an adornment sincethey do not have an aesthetic characteristic that is unrelated to theirfunctional structure. However, if they were modified to have a certainaesthetic shape that was completely unrelated to their functionality,then they could be considered an adornment.

The adornment comprises a body 710 that is configured to be releasablysecured to a bag or an article of clothing, such as shirt 760. In someembodiments, the body 710 comprises a pin 735 extending from its base.The pin 735 is configured to penetrate the bag or item of clothing. Insome embodiments, one or more flanges 740 are disposed proximate the endof the pin 735 to facilitate the attachment of the adornment to the bagor article of clothing. In some embodiments, a clasp 745 having releases750 is provided along with the adornment in order to provide a secureattachment of the adornment to the bag or article of clothing.

A groove 720 is molded or otherwise built into the body 710. The groove720 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord. Insome embodiments, the groove 720 is defined by a groove wall 730 thatsurrounds most of the groove 720, leaving only an entry space 725through which the cord 765 can access the groove 720. In someembodiments, the entry space 725 has a smaller diameter than the groove720 and the cord 765, thereby securing the cord 765 within the confinesof the groove wall 730 and requiring a significant amount of force forits removal. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 730 areflexible so that as the cord 765 is pushed through the entry space 725,the cord 765 is able to force the groove wall 730 out of its way andtemporarily increase the diameter of the entry space 725 so that thecord 765 can pass through the entry space 725 into the groove 720. Insome embodiments, the groove wall 730 is substantially rigid, therebyforcing the outer sleeve of the cord 765 to constrict as it passesthrough the entry space 725 between the ends of the groove wall 730.FIG. 7A shows the cord holder 700 in use on a user's shirt 760. The cordholder 700 holds a cord 765 that connects the user's Ipod 770 to theuser's earphones 775.

Although FIG. 7D illustrates the body using a pin for attachment, it iscontemplated that the body can employ other means for releasablysecuring itself to a bag or an article of clothing. For example, FIG. 8illustrates one embodiment of a headset cord holder 800 having a groovemolded onto an adornment that utilizes a magnetic attachment inaccordance with the principles of the present invention.

The adornment comprises a body 810 having a magnet 835. It iscontemplated that the magnet 835 can be disposed on the body 810 in avariety of different ways. In some embodiments, the magnet 835 isembedded within the body. In some embodiments, the magnet 835 is fixedto the outer surface of the body 810. The magnet 835 is configured toreleasably secure the body 810 to an item 860, such as a bag or anarticle of clothing, by mating via magnetic attraction with acorresponding magnet or piece of metal 845 disposed on the item 860. Thecorresponding magnet or piece of metal 845 can be disposed on the item860 in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the corresponding magnetor piece of metal 845 is embedded within the item 860. In someembodiments, the corresponding magnet or piece of metal 845 is attachedto the outer surface of the item 860.

A groove 820 is molded or otherwise built into the body 810. The groove820 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headset cord. Insome embodiments, the groove 820 is defined by a groove wall 830 thatsurrounds most of the groove 820, leaving only an entry space 825through which the cord can access the groove 820. In some embodiments,the entry space 825 has a smaller diameter than the groove 820 and thecord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of the groove wall830 and requiring a significant amount of force for its removal. In someembodiments, portions of the groove wall 830 are flexible so that as thecord is pushed through the entry space 825, the cord is able to forcethe groove wall 830 out of its way and temporarily increase the diameterof the entry space 825 so that the cord can pass through the entry space825 into the groove 820. In some embodiments, the groove wall 830 issubstantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve of the cord toconstrict as it passes through the entry space 825 between the ends ofthe groove wall 830.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the embodiments discussed above aremodified to incorporate additional grooves. Additional grooves areprovided for a variety of reasons and configured for a variety ofpurposes.

FIGS. 9A-B illustrate embodiments of a headset cord holder 900 havingtwo substantially parallel grooves in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention. Although FIGS. 9A-B show the two grooves builtinto a snap fastener similar to the fastener shown in FIGS. 4A-B, it iscontemplated that the two groove configuration, and any other multiplegroove configurations, is capable of being incorporated into any groovebody embodiments that are consistent with the principles of the presentinvention.

The headset cord holder 900 comprises a groove body 910. A first groove920 a and a second groove 920 b are molded or otherwise built into thegroove body 910. The grooves 920 a and 920 b are configured to receiveand releasably secure a headset cord and are substantially parallel toone another. In some embodiments, the grooves 920 a and 920 b aredefined by groove walls 930 a and 930 b, respectively, that surroundmost of their respective grooves 920 a and 920 b, leaving only entryspaces 925 a and 925 b through which the cord can access the grooves 920a and 920 b. In some embodiments, the entry spaces 925 a and 925 b havesmaller diameters than the grooves 920 a and 920 b and the cord, therebysecuring the cord within the confines of the groove wall and requiring asignificant amount of force for its removal. In some embodiments,portions of the groove walls 930 a and 930 b are flexible so that as thecord is pushed through either entry space 925 a or 925 b, the cord isable to force the groove wall out of its way and temporarily increasethe diameter of the entry space so that the cord can pass through theentry space into the groove. In some embodiments, the groove wall issubstantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve of the cord toconstrict as it passes through the entry space between the ends of thegroove wall.

FIG. 9B shows the cord holder 900 in use. The cord holder 900 holds theupper branches of a cord 965 that connects a user's device to the user'searphones 975. The use of two grooves allows the present invention tosecure both branches of the headset separately.

FIGS. 10A-B illustrate embodiments of a headset cord holder 1000 havingtwo intersecting grooves in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention. Although FIGS. 10A-B show the two grooves built intoa snap fastener similar to the fastener shown in FIGS. 4A-B, it iscontemplated that the two groove configuration, and any other multiplegroove configurations, is capable of being incorporated into any groovebody embodiments that are consistent with the principles of the presentinvention.

The headset cord holder 1000 comprises a groove body 1010. A firstgroove 1020 a and a second groove 1020 b are molded or otherwise builtinto the groove body 1010. The grooves 1020 a and 1020 b are configuredto receive and releasably secure a headset cord and have diverging pathsas they extend away from their point of intersection. In someembodiments, the grooves have a diverging paths, but do not actuallyintersect with one another.

In some embodiments, the grooves 1020 a and 1020 b are defined by groovewalls 1030 a and 1030 b, respectively, that surround most of theirrespective grooves 1020 a and 1020 b, leaving only entry spaces throughwhich the cord can access the grooves 1020 a and 1020 b. In someembodiments, the entry spaces have smaller diameters than the grooves1020 a and 1020 b and the cord, thereby securing the cord within theconfines of the groove wall and requiring a significant amount of forcefor its removal. In some embodiments, portions of the groove walls 1030a and 1030 b are flexible so that as the cord is pushed through theentry space, the cord is able to force the groove wall out of its wayand temporarily increase the diameter of the entry space so that thecord can pass through the entry space into the groove. In someembodiments, the groove wall is substantially rigid, thereby forcing theouter sleeve of the cord to constrict as it passes through the entryspace between the ends of the groove wall.

FIG. 10B shows the cord holder 1000 in use. The cord holder 1000 holds acord 1065 that connects a user's device to the user's earphones 1075.The use of two grooves having diverging paths allows the user to securethe cord in either direction. Additionally, the two grooves 1020 a and1020 b are capable of also being used to secure both branches of theheadset separately, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 9B.

FIGS. 11A-B illustrate embodiments of a headset cord holder 1100 havingthree grooves in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention. Although FIGS. 11A-B show the two grooves built into a snapfastener similar to the fastener shown in FIGS. 4A-B, it is contemplatedthat the three groove configuration, and any other multiple grooveconfigurations, is capable of being incorporated into any groove bodyembodiments that are consistent with the principles of the presentinvention.

The headset cord holder 1100 comprises a groove body 1110. A firstgroove 1120 a, a second groove 1120 b, and a third groove 1120 c aremolded or otherwise built into the groove body 1110. The grooves 1120 a,1120 b, and 1120 c are configured to receive and releasably secure aheadset cord. In some embodiments, the grooves are substantiallyparallel to one another. In some embodiments, the grooves run insequence. However, it is contemplated that a variety of differentconfigurations are capable of being be employed with respect to thearrangement of the grooves. Additionally, it is contemplated that, insome embodiments, more than the two or three grooves shown in thefigures are disposed on the groove body.

In some embodiments, the grooves 1120 a, 1120 b, and 1120 c are definedby groove walls 1130 a, 1130 b, and 1130 c, respectively, that surroundmost of their respective grooves 1120 a, 1120 b, and 1120 c, leavingonly entry spaces 1125 a, 1125 b, and 1125 c through which the cord canaccess the grooves 1120 a, 1120 b, and 1120 c. In some embodiments, theentry spaces 1125 a, 1125 b, and 1125 c have smaller diameters than thegrooves 1120 a, 1120 b, and 1120 c and the cord, thereby securing thecord within the confines of the groove wall and requiring a significantamount of force for its removal. In some embodiments, portions of thegroove walls 1130 a, 1130 b, and 1130 c are flexible so that as the cordis pushed through either entry space 1125 a, 1125 b, and 1125 c, thecord is able to force the groove wall out of its way and temporarilyincrease the diameter of the entry space so that the cord can passthrough the entry space into the groove. In some embodiments, the groovewall is substantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve of thecord to constrict as it passes through the entry space between the endsof the groove wall.

FIG. 11B shows the cord holder 1100 in use. The cord holder 1100 holds acord 1165 that connects a user's device to the user's earphones 1175.The use of three provides the user with means for securing and/orcontrolling any extra length of the cord. Additionally, any two of thethree grooves are capable of being used to secure both branches of theheadset separately, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 9B.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a headset cord holder 1300 having agroove molded into the body 1310 in accordance with some embodiments.

The body 1310 is configured to be coupled to a zipper head 1350. Thebody comprises a puller 1340 which is coupled to the body 1310. As shownin FIG. 13, in some embodiments, the puller 1340 is a cord which passesthrough the center of the body 1310. In some embodiments the puller 1340is a cord which couples the body 1310 with an opening 1380. In someembodiments the body 1310 comprises one or more of wood, glass, andmetal.

A groove 1320 is molded or otherwise built into the body 1310. Thegroove 1320 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headsetcord 1365. In some embodiments, the groove 1320 is defined by a groovewall 1330 that surrounds most of the groove 1320, leaving only an entryspace 1325 through which the cord 1365 can access the groove 1320. Insome embodiments, the entry space 1325 has a smaller diameter than thegroove 1320 and the cord 1365, thereby securing the cord within theconfines of the groove wall 1330 and requiring a significant amount offorce for its removal. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall1330 are flexible so that as the cord is pushed through the entry space1325, the cord is able to force the groove wall 1330 out of its way andtemporarily increase the diameter of the entry space 1325 so that thecord can pass through the entry space 1325 into the groove 1320. In someembodiments, the groove wall 1330 is substantially rigid, therebyforcing the outer sleeve of the cord to constrict as it passes throughthe entry space 1325 between the ends of the groove wall 1330. Asfurther shown in FIG. 13, in some embodiments, the body 1310 comprisesone or more additional grooves. In these embodiments, a user is able toplace a right side and a left side of the headset cord 1365 in acorresponding groove. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a user is ableto place both sides of a headset cord 1365 within only one of thegrooves.

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate an embodiment of a head set cord holderhaving a groove molded into the body 1410 of a zipper puller 1450 inaccordance with some embodiments.

The zipper puller 1450 is configured to be coupled to a bag or an itemof clothing, such as a jacket or shirt. In some embodiments, the body1410 is configured to act as a closure mechanism capable of releasablycoupling a first portion of the bag or item of clothing to a secondportion of the bag or article of clothing. For example, in someembodiments, the body 1410 comprises a channel (not shown) formed inopposing sidewalls 1415 in order to receive and releasably coupletogether zipper tracks of the first portion and the second portion. Insome embodiments, a puller 1440 is coupled to the body 1410 in order tofacilitate the translation of the body 1410 along the portions of thebag or item of clothing to which it is attached.

A groove 1420 is molded or otherwise built into the body 1410. Thegroove 1420 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headsetcord. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the body 1410comprises a plurality of grooves 1420. However, the body 1410 is able tocomprise any number of grooves as known in the art. For example, in someembodiments, the body 1410 is able to comprise three grooves (notshown). In these embodiments, the body 1410 is able to comprise twoupward facing grooves and one downward facing groove. In someembodiments, the body 1410 comprises a stamped metal or a molded metal.In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 14B, the body 1410 comprises anover molded plastic portion 1460 comprising the plurality of grooves1420.

In some embodiments, the groove 1420 is defined by a groove wall 1430that surrounds most of the groove 1420, leaving only an entry space 1425through which the cord can access the groove 1420. In some embodiments,the entry space 1425 has a smaller diameter than the groove 1420 and thecord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of the groove wall1430 and requiring a significant amount of force for its removal. Insome embodiments, portions of the groove wall 1430 are flexible so thatas the cord is pushed through the entry space 1425, the cord is able toforce the groove wall 1430 out of its way and temporarily increase thediameter of the entry space 1425 so that the cord can pass through theentry space 1425 into the groove 1420. In some embodiments, the groovewall 1430 is substantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve ofthe cord to constrict as it passes through the entry space 1425 betweenthe ends of the groove wall 1430.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate a headset cord holder 1500 in accordancewith further embodiments. As shown in FIG. 15, the headset cord holder1500 comprises a body 1510 having a groove molded into it.

The body 1510 is configured to be coupled to a lanyard for sun orprescription glasses. In some embodiments, the lanyard 1570 passesthrough an opening 1580 within the body 1510. However, the body 1510 isable to couple with the lanyard through a clip or any other mechanism asknown in the art. As shown in FIG. 15, each side of the lanyardcomprises a body 1510 of a headset cord holder 1500. However, in someembodiments, the headset cord holder 1500 is only coupled to one side ofthe lanyard 1570. In some embodiments, the body 1510 of the headset cordholder comprises one or more of molded plastic, hard plastic, foam andrubber. In some embodiments, the body 1510 of the headset cord holdercomprises one or more of wood, glass, and metal.

In some embodiments, the groove 1520 is defined by a groove wall 1530that surrounds most of the groove 1520, leaving only an entry space 1525through which the cord can access the groove 1520. In some embodiments,the entry space 1525 has a smaller diameter than the groove 1520 and thecord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of the groove wall1530 and requiring a significant amount of force for its removal. Insome embodiments, portions of the groove wall 1530 are flexible so thatas the cord is pushed through the entry space 1525, the cord is able toforce the groove wall 1530 out of its way and temporarily increase thediameter of the entry space 1525 so that the cord can pass through theentry space 1525 into the groove 1520. In some embodiments, the groovewall 1530 is substantially rigid, thereby forcing the outer sleeve ofthe cord to constrict as it passes through the entry space 1525 betweenthe ends of the groove wall 1530.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate a headset cord holder 1600 in accordancewith yet further embodiments. As shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, the headsetcord holder 1600 comprises a body having a groove molded into the frontface of a releasable clip or side squeeze buckle configured to beattached to a sports helmet.

The releasable clip comprises a female buckle end 1615 coupled to abuckle strap or webbing 1645 and a male buckle end 1635 coupled to abuckle strap or webbing 1640. The female buckle end 1615 is configuredto receive and releasably hold the male buckle end 1635. In someembodiments, either the female buckle end 1615 or the male buckle end1635 comprises a groove body. In some embodiments, the groove bodycomprises a portion 1610 that protrudes from either the female buckleend 1615, or the male buckle end 1635. In some embodiments, the groovebody does not protrude from the rest of the buckle end, but rather isflush with the rest of the buckle end. Additionally, in someembodiments, the body 1610, including any protruding portion, isintegrally formed with the buckle end, while in other embodiments, thebody is a separate component that is attached to the buckle end. In someembodiments, the groove body is configured to act as a closure mechanismcapable of releasably coupling a first strap, and any item to which thefirst strap is attached, to a second strap, and any item to which thesecond strap is attached. For example, in some embodiments, the groovebody is part of a female buckle end 1615 that is coupled to a firstportion of a sports helmet via a strap 1645. The female buckle end 1615mates with a male buckle end 1635. The male buckle end 1635 is coupledto a second portion of the sports helmet via a strap 1640.

Each end of the releasable clip 1615, 1635 is coupled by a strap 1645,1640 to a sports helmet. As shown in FIG. 16B, the releasable clip iscoupled to a bicycle helmet 1660. However, the releasable clip is ableto be coupled to any sports helmet as known in the art. For example, insome embodiments the releasable clip is coupled to one or more of askiing helmet, bicycle helmet, motorcycle helmet or other sports helmet.

A groove 1620 is molded or otherwise built into the groove body. Thegroove 1620 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headsetcord 1665. In some embodiments, the groove 1620 is defined by a groovewall 1630 that surrounds most of the groove 1620, leaving only an entryspace 1625 through which the cord can access the groove 1620. In someembodiments, the entry space 1625 has a smaller diameter than the groove1620 and the cord 1665, thereby securing the cord within the confines ofthe groove wall 1630 and requiring a significant amount of force for itsremoval. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 1630 areflexible so that as the cord is pushed through the entry space 1625, thecord is able to force the groove wall 1630 out of its way andtemporarily increase the diameter of the entry space 1625 so that thecord can pass through the entry space 1625 into the groove 1620. In someembodiments, the groove wall 1630 is substantially rigid, therebyforcing the outer sleeve of the cord to constrict as it passes throughthe entry space 1625 between the ends of the groove wall 1630.

As shown in FIG. 16A, a headset cord 1665 is releasably held within agroove 1620. It is contemplated that the groove 1620 is able to bemolded in various directions depending on its intended use. In someembodiments, the groove 1620 is built into a groove body that isconfigured to swivel about the clip end, or other support member, towhich it is attached, thereby allowing the groove 1620 to be rotatedinto a desired position.

FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate a headset cord holder 1700 in accordancewith some embodiments. The headset cord holder 1700 comprises a bodyhaving a groove molded or built into the body which is a portion of apiece of jewelry 1770.

In some embodiments, the portion of jewelry is configured to be coupledto at least an additional article. For example, as shown in FIGS. 17Aand 17B, the body is coupled to a bead of jewelry 1760 in a strand ofbeads comprising a necklace 1770. In some embodiments, the piece ofjewelry is one or more of a broach, earrings, bracelet or sunglasslanyard. However, the body is able to be molded or built into any pieceof jewelry as known in the art. Alternatively, in some embodiments oneor more additional grooves is able to be molded in to the body or otherportion of the piece of jewelry.

A groove 1720 is molded or otherwise built into the groove body. Thegroove 1720 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headsetcord 1765. In some embodiments, the groove 1720 is defined by a groovewall 1730 that surrounds most of the groove 1720, leaving only an entryspace 1725 through which the cord can access the groove 1720. In someembodiments, the entry space 1725 has a smaller diameter than the groove1720 and the cord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of thegroove wall 1730 and requiring a significant amount of force for itsremoval. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 1730 areflexible so that as the cord is pushed through the entry space 1725, thecord is able to force the groove wall 1730 out of its way andtemporarily increase the diameter of the entry space 1725 so that thecord can pass through the entry space 1725 into the groove 1720. In someembodiments, the groove wall 1730 is substantially rigid, therebyforcing the outer sleeve of the cord to constrict as it passes throughthe entry space 1725 between the ends of the groove wall 1730.

FIG. 18 illustrates a headset cord holder 1800 in accordance with someembodiments. The headset cord holder 1800 comprises a body 1810 having agroove molded or built into the body 1810 which is a portion of anidentifying surface 1860. The body 1810 is configured to be coupled toat least an additional article. In some embodiments, the body 1810comprises one or more of rubber, plastic and metal. Particularly, thebody 1810 is configured to attach an additional article by one or moreof stitching, riveting, heat pressing, adhesive attachment, or chemicalmethod. In some embodiments, the body 1810 comprises an additionalsurface 1815 which attaches to the additional article.

A groove 1820 is molded or otherwise built into the groove body. Thegroove 1820 is configured to receive and releasably secure a headsetcord. In some embodiments, the groove 1820 is defined by a groove wall1830 that surrounds most of the groove 1820, leaving only an entry space1825 through which the cord can access the groove 1820. In someembodiments, the entry space 1825 has a smaller diameter than the groove1820 and the cord, thereby securing the cord within the confines of thegroove wall 1830 and requiring a significant amount of force for itsremoval. In some embodiments, portions of the groove wall 1830 areflexible so that as the cord is pushed through the entry space 1825, thecord is able to force the groove wall 1830 out of its way andtemporarily increase the diameter of the entry space 1825 so that thecord can pass through the entry space 1825 into the groove 1820. In someembodiments, the groove wall 1830 is substantially rigid, therebyforcing the outer sleeve of the cord to constrict as it passes throughthe entry space 1825 between the ends of the groove wall 1830.

In some embodiments, the grooves of the presently claimed invention havea diameter less than or equal to approximately 2 mm. In someembodiments, the grooves have a diameter less than or equal toapproximately 1.5 mm. However, it is contemplated that a variety ofgroove sizes are within the scope of the presently claimed invention.Furthermore, it is contemplated that multiple groove configurations canhave a certain number of grooves of one size and a certain number ofgrooves of a different size in order to accommodate differently sizedcords or different parts of the same cord.

In operation, a user is place a headset cord within the confines of thegroove wall while using the headset to listen to an electronic device.This enables a user to comfortably utilize the headset without becomingentangled within the cord. By doing so, the headset cord holder has theadvantage of providing an inexpensive and easy way to hold a headsetcord in a comfortable and convenient position while utilizing anelectronic device. Accordingly, the headset cord holder described hereinhas numerous advantages.

The presently claimed invention has been described in terms of specificembodiments incorporating details to facilitate the understanding of theprinciples of construction and operation of the invention. As such,references herein to specific embodiments and details thereof are notintended to limit the scope of the claims appended hereto. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that modifications can be made tothe embodiments chosen for illustration without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A headset cord holder comprising: a. a closuremechanism that releasably couples a first portion of an article to asecond portion of the article, the closure mechanism comprising anoutside surface, wherein the closure mechanism is selected from a groupconsisting of a garment button, a zipper puller, a garment snapfastener, and a buckle attachment; and b. a first groove integrallymolded within the outside surface of the closure mechanism that directlyreceives and releasably holds a headset cord, the first groovecomprising a first groove wall, a second groove wall and a groove entryspace, even with a top surface of the closure mechanism, both the firstgroove wall and the second groove wall extending into the body below theoutside surface to form the first groove, such that when the headsetcord is secured within the first groove, at least a portion of theheadset cord is held within the body and below the outside surface. 2.The headset cord holder of claim 1, wherein the first groove has adiameter less than or equal to approximately 2 mm.
 3. The headset cordholder of claim 1, wherein the closure mechanism is a releasable clip.4. The headset cord holder of claim 3, wherein the body is integrallyformed within the closure mechanism.
 5. The headset cord holder of claim3, wherein the body is configured to be removably coupled to the closuremechanism.
 6. The headset cord holder of claim 1, wherein the bodycomprises one or more of glass, wood, or metal.
 7. The headset cordholder of claim 1, wherein the body comprises one or more of stampedmetal or molded metal.
 8. The headset cord holder of claim 4, whereinthe body comprises molded plastic.
 9. The headset cord holder of claim8, wherein the releasable clip is coupled to a sports helmet.
 10. Theheadset cord holder of claim 1, wherein the body comprises one or moreadditional grooves configured to receive and releasably secure theheadset cord.
 11. A headset cord holder comprising: a. a closuremechanism that releasably couples a first portion of an article to asecond portion of the article, the closure mechanism comprising anoutside surface, wherein the closure mechanism is selected from a groupconsisting of a garment button, a zipper puller and a garment snapfastener; and b. a first groove integrally molded within the outsidesurface of the closure mechanism that directly receives and releasablyholds a headset cord, the first groove comprising a first groove wall, asecond groove wall and a groove entry space even with a top surface ofthe closure mechanism, both the first groove wall and the second groovewall extending into the body below the outside surface to form the firstgroove, such that when the headset cord is secured within the firstgroove, at least a portion of the headset cord is held within the bodyand below the outside surface.